Total alkalinity is a measure of the resistance of water to changes in pH. Total alkalinity is measured in ppms or mgls. The higher the alkalinity, the more difficult it is to change pH with either acid or soda ash. The lower the alkalinity, the more likely the pH will change; even slight changes in chemicals, swimmer loads, and weather can have a significant effect on pH or cause pH "bounce" when the alkalinity is low. If you experience difficulties either adjusting pH levels or maintaining a target pH, it's a good idea to analyze total alkalinity. Most pools should maintain total alkalinity levels between 100 and 120 ppm/mgl. Sodium bicarbonate is used to raise total alkalinity while muriatic acid or sodium bisulfate is used to lower it.

Water Chemistry • Popular Disinfectants • Chorine • Calcium Hypochorite • Sodium Hypochlorite • Stabilized Chlorines •
Bromine • Other Disinfectants • Water Balance • pH • Total Alkalinity • Calcium Hardness • Total Dissolved Solids •
Balancing Pool Water • Water Testing • Pool Vacs & Sweepers •

Pool Maintenance • Daily Chores • Weekly Chores • Solving Common Problems • Cloudy, Milky Water • Malodorous, Irritating Water
Green Water • Red or Brown Water • Blue - Green Water • Blue or Black Water • Pump Problems • Sand in Pool •
Excessive Water Loss • Excessive Foaming